Step Into the Dammit Run this Saturday!

Runners and walkers participating in Saturday's at will surely accomplish their goal of building overall strength and more powerful legs for future distances and inclines.

The 5-mile race, whose proceeds benefit local sports programs, takes place at 8:30 a.m. at the Los Gatos High School track, and continues down the, climbing up to Lexington Reservoir.

Named after Lexington Dam, participants reach the crest of the hill half way up the race. The course actually offers three ascending hills, perfect for those training for short and long distances who want the strenuous workout to translate into faster running and more endurance.

Runners will cross the face of the dam, head up the Jones Trail and traverse back down the trail to Jones Road. They will then proceed to College Avenue and back to the trail before heading back to the Los Gatos High School track.

The run attracts about 800 runners every year who enjoy various post-race vendor booths, a raffle (prizes are donated by local merchants), refreshments, music and fun.

Race-day registration begins at 6:30 a.m. with a race start of 8:30 a.m.

Awards are given to the top 10 finishers in the following divisions: High School Boys and Girls, Open Men and Women, Men and Women 30-34, 35-39, 40-44 and 45-49. The top five male and female finishers in the 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-and-over and heavyweight divisions receive awards.

All finishers receive ribbons and the West Valley Track Club provides computerized results.

The cost for entry is $35 if you want a Coolmax shirt, and $20 without the shirt. T-shirts alone are priced at $20, and will be sold at the track on race day or in advance at Athletic Performance, 55 W. Main St., Los Gatos.

The race's title sponsors this year are  Los Gatos Athletic Association.